Actually, it's not a preposterous question. It goes too far to say that a lot of Catholics do it, but some do, for instance, in the Philippines.

But of course Shia pilgrims are much more committed to the practice.

No, it's not a preposterous question. But, as you note, it goes too far to say a lot of Catholics do it. You could probably find a small percentage of any religion that practices self-flagellation for one reason or another.

No, it's not a preposterous question. But, as you note, it goes too far to say a lot of Catholics do it. You could probably find a small percentage of any religion that practices self-flagellation for one reason or another.

My question never implied that "a lot of Catholics" practice it. I noted "some Catholics" which suggests at least, a group of people.